People of Chesterfield show support for Ashgate Hospice
The people of North Derbyshire have shown incredible generosity and support for Ashgate Hospice in recent months, coming together to raise vital funds and honour loved ones. Despite the hospice facing a significant funding shortfall, community events have highlighted the strength and compassion of the local area.
Annual Ball raises over £100,000
Ashgate Hospice’s annual black-tie Ball, held for the first time at the Best Western Plus Mosborough Hall Hotel in Sheffield on Friday 14 November 2025, raised £108,818 to support patients living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
The event welcomed 180 guests who enjoyed a four-course dinner and learned more about the hospice’s impact in the region. Guests also took part in a lively auction, with items including a signed Jude Bellingham shirt from the Euro 2024 final, a tour of the Silverstone Aramco Formula One building, and a luxury stay at Swinney Wood Log Cabins in Belper.
Anna Jinks, partnerships development officer, said:
“This is without doubt one of the most challenging periods in Ashgate Hospice’s history, and that makes the generosity shown at the Annual Ball even more humbling.
To see so many people come together, give so generously and help raise such an incredible amount means so much for the hospice and everyone who relies on our services.
The funds raised will make a real, tangible difference to patients and the people important to them when they need us most, and we cannot thank our supporters enough for standing with us at such a critical time.”
Light up a Life brings community together in remembrance
Just weeks later, on Sunday 7 December 2025, hundreds of people took part in Ashgate Hospice’s annual Light up a Life event, sponsored by Harold Lilleker & Sons Ltd, raising more than £55,000. Around 500 supporters walked the 1.6-mile lantern-lit procession through Old Brampton, while another 150 attended the remembrance ceremony in the hospice gardens.
Jack Wood, Director of Income Generation at Ashgate Hospice, said:
“We want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for Light up a Life this year. After what has been a challenging period for our hospice, seeing so many people stand side by side in remembrance meant more than we can say.
“For many, this time of year can be incredibly hard. Coming together in this way – to pause, to remember and to honour someone important – is a powerful reminder of the strength within our community.”
The evening featured music from Sheffield’s Cancer Choir, vocalist Alex Eastwood, and thoughtful readings, led by Ashgate’s Spiritual Care Practitioner, Tim Wheeler.
Even after the event, supporters can still dedicate a star in Ashgate’s virtual night sky in memory of someone special, with all donations helping to fund the hospice’s specialist end-of-life and palliative care services. With NHS funding covering only half of the care costs, community support remains essential to ensure Ashgate can continue to provide its vital services.
